Jan. 18, 2021

Genesis 37 and Genesis 38

Joseph was favored by his father Jacob and all of his brothers knew it. This favor is clearly shown when Joseph is given a coat of many colors. The phrase “robe of many colors” is a symbolism of privilege and status. On top of that, Joseph was sharing his dreams with his brothers that showed him ruling over them. The jealousy in their hearts soon grew into them plotting to kill Joseph. Rather than murdering him, they sell him into slavery. 

Meanwhile, the narrative shifts to follow the adventures of Judah, one of Joseph’s brothers. Judah’s story goes from bad to worse, as he “saw” and “took” a woman that looked beautiful to him, recalling some of the same language used for sin in earlier chapters in Genesis. Judah’s sons from his Canaanite wife prove to be even more wicked than he is, and his escapade comes to a tipping point when he is confronted with his own sin and hypocrisy. 

Some of this cultural context may seem strange to the modern reader, but this story becomes crucial to fulfilling God’s promise to Abraham. It is through the redemption of this sexual scandal that the royal lineage of King David and his descendants can be traced, the most important of which is Jesus, the Messiah. 

Matthew 13:1-33 

Jesus says that those who hear and understand the parables are genuinely blessed, for they are spiritually sensitive and responsive to the Holy Spirit. In the parable of the sower, Jesus describes seeds being sown into different soils and compares them to the spiritual health of people listening.

Those sown along the path, on rocky ground, and among thorns represent those who hear the word of God and ultimately choose not to believe it for a variety of reasons. But those sown on the good soil represent someone who hears the word of God and does it, bearing fruit in their own lives that blesses all of those around them. 

Following this parable, there are a series of smaller parables that highlight the way the kingdom of God would influence the world for good, yet would always face the threat of internal corruption and impurity.

Make It Personal
  • Sometimes God’s plan is difficult to see. Joseph is about to face many more difficult circumstances, but he remains faithful to God, trusting Him. Take a moment to remind yourself of how God loves you. Consider the times God has come through on your behalf.
  • From Genesis 38 and Matthew 13, we can see that we need to examine ourselves spiritually. We are often guilty of the things we condemn others for. Ask the Holy Spirit to show you these areas. 
  • Which soil are you from Matthew 13

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